In a compelling exploration, award-winning architect Tom Manwell discusses the intriguing concept of coliving, its impact on personal wellbeing, and the role of sustainable, low-energy buildings in promoting overall wellbeing. As the director of WellStudio Architecture and Coliving, Tom offers unique insights and experiences, providing a fresh perspective for those looking for an alternative to the traditional path of property ownership.
Despite society’s glorification of individualistic living, the soaring property prices and increasing isolation experienced by many in global cities highlight the need for a fresh approach. Coliving provides this alternative, particularly appealing to those in their twenties, thirties, and forties. It offers a community-oriented living model that fosters social connections, an aspect of life that Tom emphasises as being vital for overall wellbeing.
The design of coliving spaces is another significant factor in promoting residents’ wellbeing. Factors such as color schemes, the use of natural light and materials, and the inclusion of green spaces can nourish a sense of wellbeing. Tom also explores the importance of social connections and the potential conflicts that may arise in coliving spaces. Effective strategies to address these issues, such as open communication and community management, are crucial in ensuring a harmonious living environment.
As the discussion progresses, Tom delves deeper into how coliving spaces can enhance sustainability. He explains how the building’s location, structure, and occupants’ behavior can impact sustainability. Shared resources within coliving spaces not only reduce individual consumption but also foster a virtuous community circle.
Community management is a key aspect of successful coliving spaces. This involves ensuring that community spaces are designed to facilitate social interactions and that residents have a voice in decisions affecting the living space. Examples of successful coliving spaces from global cities like Amsterdam, London, Mallorca, Berlin, and Florence demonstrate how wellbeing and sustainability can be incorporated into their design.
Lastly, Tom explores the potential of ColivingDAO for residents and investors. Such model allows individuals to invest in ventures aligned with their values while also aiming to receive a return on their investment. This collective ownership model provides residents with a voice in the community they live in, adding another layer to the benefits of coliving.
Overall, the exploration offers a compelling narrative on coliving, wellbeing, and sustainability, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in alternative living models, sustainable architecture, and community living. As Tom Manwell aptly demonstrates, coliving is more than just a trend – it’s a revolution in domestic spaces that holds great potential for the future of urban living.